On May 19, Florida Renal Association (FRA) Vice-President Codie Pauley presented the FRA’s annual home dialysis modality webinar for Florida Medicaid Managed Care plans in partnership with the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA).
The webinar is conducted each year in accordance with state budget proviso language directing AHCA to work with dialysis providers, managed care organizations, and physicians to ensure that Medicaid patients with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) are educated and assessed regarding their suitability for all available home dialysis modalities.
“From the funds in Specific Appropriation 220, the Agency for Health Care Administration shall work with dialysis providers, managed care organizations, and physicians to ensure that all Medicaid patients with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) are educated and assessed by their physician and dialysis provider to determine their suitability for all types of home modalities. Further, the agency shall consult with the dialysis community concerning suitable voluntary reporting to the state Medicaid program on members’ home modality suitability.”
While Pauley served as the presenter, the educational content was a collaborative effort developed by FRA members who are leaders within dialysis organizations across the state of Florida. Prior to finalizing the presentation, the group met to ensure the program addressed key topics, emerging priorities, and opportunities to improve patient access to home therapies. This collaborative approach also resulted in the inclusion of additional patient-centered stories that helped illustrate the real-world impact of home modality education and access.
Pauley delivered a comprehensive overview of home dialysis options, highlighting both potential cost savings and opportunities to improve patient outcomes. His passion for patient education and commitment to advancing home therapies helped make the presentation both informative and engaging for attendees.
The FRA also extends its appreciation to Alexandria Arlund for her partnership and support in coordinating this webinar over the past several years. Arlund recently announced a promotion, and this year marked her final participation in the annual presentation. The FRA welcomes Patrick Thorson as the new AHCA contact for ESRD-related initiatives moving forward.
The FRA is fortunate to have a strong working relationship with AHCA and to benefit from the expertise and dedication of its members, who continue to lead important educational initiatives that support patients, providers, and policymakers across Florida’s kidney care community. The Association looks forward to continuing this important collaboration in the years ahead.
